Project C was one of the three designs of cruisers that Naval Architect George Thurston proposed in his essay "The Influence of the Washington Conference on Naval Design" The proposed design was to adhere to the 10,000 ton limit stated in the Washington Naval Treaty, have nine 8 inch guns all placed forward of the superstructure in 3 triple turrets, and maintain a top speed of 34 knots. The design was not accepted for development with a more conservative approach being taken which would eventually lead to the Royal Navy County class cruisers.